The solstice is past and the days are getting longer, but they're also getting colder and Northwest Arkansas is moving into the time of the year when we see ice storms and snow squalls. This change to winter weather is your cue to get your car looked over. Frigid temperatures and the possibility of unexpected and inclement weather means that you want your car to be in tiptop shape. If you drive a Subaru, you're probably thinking, “I've got all wheel drive and traction control. It's kept me safe for years, so I have nothing to worry about!” While it's true that Subarus are made to handle winter weather, you still want to be sure that your vehicle is in peak condition.
Test the battery. Your battery might have been working fine all summer, but when the temperatures plummet, it could turn into a finicky little troublemaker. Cold weather can do a number on your car battery. Get it tested to see if you're due for a new one before you get stranded in an iced over parking lot with a car that won’t start.
You also want to be sure to check all of the fluid levels. This includes the oil, brake fluid, steering fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant. It's always important to keep an eye on these levels and always have them correct, but it’s even more important in the winter. With winter storms you could end up driving on sheets of ice. You definitely want your brakes, steering, and every single part of your car to be working like it should.It’s also important to check your tires. Make sure the air pressure is at the right levels. Also, look for any excessive wear or bald spots on the tread. Your tires are what is going to keep you latched on to the road. You want as much traction as you can get.
You can keep an emergency winter kit in the trunk. Just a basic collection of emergency stuff in case something happens, or you get stuck. A blanket/ emergency blanket for warmth, some food, hand warmers, a folding shovel, kitty litter (for traction), signal lights, or road flairs, and an ice scraper could all come in handy if you find yourself on the side of the road.
Bring your Subaru into our service center before winter weather hits. We can make sure that everything is running properly with your vehicle. Call us today or schedule an appointment online!
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